Not quite the same.
5/9/2020
Finishing our 19-20 school year via distance learning was not what any of us expected or wanted for our final trimester in fourth grade. It has definitely been a challenge for all of us involved. However I believe the students have risen to the challenge and have been a credit to themselves for their determination, tenacity and optimism they have brought day in day out to our online sessions.
We are a school community that strives for hands-on, face-to-face, multi-age and active learning. It is sad to know we won’t get to be in the same space together until next school year. Though. each day we connect with each other online using videoconferencing. We play games; share "good things;" discuss our assignments; use whiteboards and screen share interesting or funny things we have found. We appreciate and value the chance to see and hear each other and to add to our shared experiences. We may be finishing our school year from a distance, but we are still learning together! However, it is not quite the same. We have found some amazing and cool resources out there in the world of distance learning. Virtual field trips into the deep corners of the world and beyond. Programs and apps that allow for new content learning and investigation and new digital platforms that allow us to share and connect like we never have before. However, it is not quite the same. It's that connection between students and teachers, the one that gets nurtured and developed all year long, the one that happens as you develop a face to face relationship. It's the inside jokes that belong to just our class, the quick laughs at something silly, the insightful comments and flashes of brilliance and personality that shine through or even the simple fact of sharing a snack and lunch together. These moments are missing. While I am grateful for the opportunities to continue teaching remotely, to continue to provide instruction as well as I can, and to continue to nurture the connection that we still have... Its not quite the same. I miss seeing the students faces. I miss working together on problems. I miss laughing and learning. Quite simply, I miss my class. |
Martina HenkeMartina Henke has been a K-8 educator for 30+ years. A life-long learner, she loves working with kids of all ages, new technology, great books, fiber arts, and her wonderful family! Archives
April 2021
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